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These comments summarized the information provided by NIOSH regarding the proposed rule on lead (7439921) based paint hazard elimination. NIOSH considers the portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer to be useful as a screening tool only for very high lead concentrations in a painted surface and does not regard currently available XRF portable devices to be useful for determining the absence of a potential lead hazard to workers or the absence of a potential public health hazard. NIOSH suggests that HUD specify the qualifications required to certify testing results. NIOSH suggests that abatement be performed only by workers who are trained in managing lead hazards and are properly protected. NIOSH does not regard encapsulation as a permanent abatement method. NIOSH notes that no data exists to recommend the use of trisodium-phosphate detergent or high phosphate dishwasher detergent as suitable for removing lead dust from surfaces. Other cleansers have been shown to work as well or better than those that contain phosphate.